Mulher de Cachaceiro
Cacique e Pajé
The Trials of a Drunkard's Wife
The song "Mulher de Cachaceiro" by Cacique e Pajé paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by the wife of a heavy drinker. The lyrics delve into the daily hardships and emotional toll experienced by a woman married to a man who prioritizes alcohol over his family responsibilities. The song opens by highlighting the woman's tireless efforts to manage household chores and care for her children, all while working as a maid. Her hands are described as calloused, symbolizing the physical and emotional labor she endures.
The narrative continues to explore the woman's life, marked by a lack of joy and comfort. The lyrics describe her attempts to find solace under the covers, only to be met with the unpleasant odors of her husband's unwashed feet and the stench of alcohol. This imagery underscores the woman's constant struggle to find peace in her own home, a place that should be a sanctuary but is instead a source of discomfort and distress.
The song also portrays the husband's behavior, depicting him as a man who squanders his time and money at the local tavern. His bravado and reckless actions are contrasted with the woman's resilience and dedication. The lyrics suggest a cycle of neglect and irresponsibility, with the husband returning home in a disheveled state, having lost even his belt. Through this narrative, Cacique e Pajé shed light on the broader social issue of alcoholism and its impact on families, particularly the women who bear the brunt of its consequences.